As you may know if you read this website regularly, I generally view beaches and islands in Thailand as a binary choice: the dramatic, iconic Andaman Sea versus the calmer, more understated Gulf of Thailand.

Given the length of Thailand's coastline (and the fact that I associate quite specific implications with these very general categories), the discussion is somewhat more complex. At least it can be, depending on how one defines "beach" and how important sand and sea actually are to one's experience of being near the coast.

Specifically, I'm referring to Hua Hin versus Pattaya, a debate centered on two coastal resorts not exactly known for their beaches. This allows us to consider both in context.

Similarities between Pattaya and Hua Hin

The last time I was in Hua Hin, my husband (who is from Chonburi province, which includes Pattaya) remarked that Pattaya, as the crow flies—or from the perspective of a ship—is practically directly opposite on the other side of the gulf. “There used to be a ferry service, at least before Covid,” he said. “I’m not sure if it’s still running.” Hua Hin and Pattaya are, quite literally, mirror images of each other.

This also applies, to some extent, in a figurative sense. These are supposed beach resorts that are primarily known for other reasons, as their beaches are not particularly beautiful compared to most other beaches in Thailand. Furthermore, the clientele there tends to be significantly older than in places like Phuket, Krabi, or the Koh Samui island group – and for a variety of reasons.

Other ways to compare Hua Hin and Pattaya

Beach quality

To be quite honest: Neither Pattaya's beaches nor Hua Hin Beach are really worth mentioning compared to other beaches. You won't find anything on the mainland comparable to Railay Beach in Krabi or even Chaweng Beach on Koh Samui.

Hotels

When deciding between Hua Hin and Pattaya, hotels are, in my opinion, a better indicator. While many high-quality hotels are being built in Pattaya, ultimately you still have to choose between run-down two-star establishments and luxury hotels like the Dusit Thani. Hua Hin, on the other hand, attracts visitors with stylish boutique hotels like the Peri Hotel.

Restaurants and nightlife

Pattaya has also invested heavily in developing itself into an attractive tourist destination, far more than just an entertainment venue. From Jomtien in the north to Pattaya's main beach, new restaurants and upscale bars are constantly opening. However, from a culinary perspective, I would still prefer Hua Hin, if only for places like Ko Mark Seafood.

Germinality (or lack thereof)

While the gap (no pun intended) between restaurants and bars in Pattaya and Hua Hin has narrowed, the reality is that decades of bitter animosity are difficult to overcome. Almost all establishments still attract numerous sex tourists, whose discretion varies considerably. If this bothers you, please choose Hua Hin.

Day trips and excursions

As I mentioned before, the beaches of Pattaya – at least on the mainland – aren't exactly breathtaking. However, if you take a day trip to the nearby island of Koh Larn, things look quite different. Hua Hin itself unfortunately doesn't have any truly beautiful beaches nearby, but attractions like the Phraya Nakhon Cave and Rajabhakti Park, dedicated to Thailand's most famous kings, lend the city experience a very special charm.

How many days do you need in Pattaya? And what about Hua Hin?

Both Pattaya and Hua Hin are popular weekend destinations from Bangkok, but you don't necessarily need a whole weekend to enjoy them. For example, when I lived in Bangkok, I would sometimes take the bus from Bangkok to Hua Hin on Saturday mornings, spend Saturday evening in a hotel like the aforementioned Peri Hotel, and return on Sundays completely relaxed.

Is a day trip to either of these places worthwhile? Well, since both are about 2-3 hours from Bangkok depending on the route (which translates to a total of 4-6 hours round trip, assuming no delays or traffic jams), it's not really practical. This is especially true considering how breathtaking the sunsets in Pattaya and Hua Hin are in comparison.

More frequently asked questions about Pattaya and Hua Hin

Is Hua Hin worth a visit?

Hua Hin is a city I've come to appreciate more and more as I've gotten older. Although the individual attractions – beach, night market, sights – aren't particularly impressive on their own, I enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the excellent, affordable hotels, and the delicious restaurants. I highly recommend that anyone who hasn't been to Hua Hin before visit and see for themselves.

Why is Hua Hin so popular?

Hua Hin has been popular with Bangkok residents for years, not least because of its proximity to the capital and its connection to the Thai royal family. Foreign travelers (especially older ones) appreciate the town because it is more relaxed and less touristy than destinations like Krabi and Phuket, even if these objectively offer more beautiful beaches.

Which beach is more beautiful, Pattaya or Hua Hin?

To be honest, neither Pattaya nor Hua Hin have truly beautiful beaches. The sand isn't white; the water is relatively clear, but not as brilliantly blue as on Thailand's islands, especially those in the Andaman Sea. However, considering the nearby island of Koh Larn, I would probably prefer Pattaya to Hua Hin.

Conclusion

The comparison between Hua Hin and Pattaya is more interesting than I initially thought. When I first visited Thailand, I couldn't make much sense of either city, let alone their rather mediocre beaches. But if you disregard the fact that Pattaya is neither Krabi nor Phuket (and certainly not a sex tourism hub), and consider Hua Hin not for its average beach but for its fantastic hotels and restaurants… well, then things look quite different. Perhaps I'm simply getting older and now fit the target audience of these places better! Wherever your Thailand trip takes you, I would be delighted if you would entrust me with the planning.